Cravings are normal experiences that expectant moms encounter during pregnancy. For most women, cravings are usually for certain types of comforting food. But sometimes there are also some cravings that are not directly related to a woman’s pregnancy, and these cravings, when indulged, can prove harmful to the unborn baby.
The issue of alcohol during pregnancy is highly controversial. This is a critical time and not every craving–most especially alcohol cravings–should be indulged.
Most doctors advise pregnant women to abstain from drinking. Babies are especially sensitive as their system is just starting to develop. Some studies claim that expectant moms can consume a minimum amount of alcohol. The problem, however, is that there is really no set standard on the amount they can safely consume.
Expectant moms are most sensitive during this period because of hormonal and other bodily changes during pregnancy. Alcoholic drinks such as wine can bring soothing and calming effects for an expecting mom, but this does not give one the license to abuse alcohol. A pregnant mom can drink wine a few times a week; but here’s the catch, there are certain levels of alcohol in wine that might be too overwhelming for your critical state and for your baby’s health.
A study conducted by the Center for Addiction and Mental Health shows that consuming a maximum of 10g of alcohol a day will not affect the child ” at least not to a severe extent. The study also states that anything beyond that amount of alcohol consumption will put a baby’s health and life at risk.
Fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) is a series of clinical problems that are evident in children whose mothers have consumed alcohol while they are pregnant. These clinical problems can range from physical disabilities such as facial deformities and growth deficiency or neurological problems such as learning disabilities, speech and cognitive functions, attention span, among others.
While doctors are keen on advising expectant moms to stay alcohol-free during their pregnancy, there are still some who’d like to have it their own way. Although there are studies that show light and moderate drinking is okay, risking your baby’s health for a little alcohol fix is definitely not in your child’s best interests. So hold that bottle of Lafite Rothschild for a first birthday celebration and stick to the non-alcoholics while your baby is still sharing your direct food supply.